Overview
What is a PET/CT?
A PET/CT scan (Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography) is an advanced imaging test that combines a metabolic function test (PET) with a detailed structural scan (CT). It is primarily used to detect diseases like cancer, heart conditions and brain disorders by highlighting how active the cells are.
How does it work?
A standard PET/CT scan is performed in a single session and combines two distinct technologies:
- The PET scan – Patients receive an injection of a safe, mildly radioactive "radiotracer" (such as a sugar-based substance). Diseased or highly active cells, like cancer cells, absorb large amounts of this tracer and light up as "hot spots" on the scan.
- The CT scan – This uses X-rays to create a highly detailed, 3D anatomical map of internal organs.
What are the benefits?
A PET CT scan shows both what the problem tissues are doing and where they are located. This is a huge benefit as it allows healthcare teams to identify diseases in their earliest stages, long before structural changes appear on standard tests.
Common uses include:
- Oncology – Detecting cancer, determining if it has spread, and checking how well a treatment is working.
- Neurology – Pinpointing areas of the brain affected by epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, or other disorders.
What can patients expect?
Preparation: Patients typically need to fast (avoid eating or drinking, except water) for several hours before the appointment.
Procedure: After receiving the tracer, you will rest quietly for about 45 to 60 minutes while it circulates through your body. The actual scan takes about 15 to 30 minutes, similar to a CT scan. You must lie still inside a large tube scanner for the duration of the scan.
Safety information: The radioactive tracer decays quickly and exposes you to a small, safe amount of radiation.
PET/CT Referral
A referral from a consultant is required; referrals from GPs will not be accepted.
PET/CT is covered by VHI, LAYA, LEVEL, GMA, POMAS on a pre-approval basis. The referring Consultant must submit a pre-approval form along with a referral letter, which is sent to the insurance company for approval and confirmation that they will cover the scan. Irish Life does not cover these at this point in time.